Domestic violence entails situations wherein a relationship; one partner systematically engages in acts that demean or harm the other partner (Gerdes, 2012). Typically, domestic violence manifests itself in many forms including economic, physical, emotional and psychological acts that cause detriment to the victim. While domestic violence may be construed as life threatening acts occurring at family level, it has severe consequences on the society as a whole. High profile domestic violence cases, such as the case against George Zimmerman represent hurting and distasteful couple of experiences. With the close analysis of this case, there are numerous mythological and legal lessons bordering on domestic violence.
In Zimmerman’s case, domestic violence and the challenges that face preparation of evidence are evident. The accuser, Zimmerman’s wife, reveals that her husband pointed a gun on her face after engaging in other physical destructive actions involving breaking of a glass table and numerous pieces of furniture in the house. Further, Shellie, the girlfriend to Zimmerman, reveals that before the gunshot incident, Zimmerman tried to choke her in yet another incident of domestic violence.
Legally, the prosecutor needs compact evidence in order to facilitate the conviction of domestic abusers. It is essential for the victims to report any attempts of domestic abuse once they occur. For example, in Zimmerman’s case, the court charged him of battery and felony following revelations that he wanted to strangle her wife in unreported earlier incident. Interestingly, one may argue that use of this unreported incident has nothing to do with the case at hand. However, it is within the law that incidences whose evidence can advance the ongoing case are valid as sources of information in a court of law. Unlike in the past, domestic violence cases are not subject to accordance and satisfaction in an attempt find a resolution. Essentially, that is the reason Zimmerman has to be convicted in the presence of a judge and restrained from ending the case based on the agreement of the victim and the perpetrator of domestic abuse.
In my opinion, the court’s decision to release Zimmerman on bail and later free him on the basis that the prosecution faced challenges in substantiating the evidence is brutal. When Shellie’s mother says that her daughter is living a comfortable life, the events change. Moreover, this further serves as an obstacle to the prosecution in advancing the case. Essentially, the laws on domestic violence need to be harsh to the perpetrators in order to deter people from such heinous acts. The victims and survivors of domestic violence needs to report any slightest abuse before it becomes disastratrous.in addition, victims need to seek the services of counselors in order to find solutions to their domestic conflicts. In extreme cases, it is pertinent for the victims to separate and live for themselves.
In conclusion, domestic violence cases are common in society. In addition, domestic violence negatively influences the development of the society through loss of lives of people. It is essential for people in relationships to respect and love one another. Similarly, early reporting of domestic abuses is key to resolving family conflicts before they can result in deaths. Therefore, it is pertinent for judges to understand the manifestations of domestic violence and apply the law without any manipulations to end the menace.
References
Gerdes, L. I. (2012). Domestic violence. Detroit: Greenhaven Press.
Hanna, J., & Almasy, S. (2013, November 20). George Zimmerman posts $9,000 bail in domestic violence case. Retrieved from edition.cnn.com/2013/11/19/justice/florida-george-zimmerman-arrest/
